Chamomile Growing Guide

Matricaria chamomilla

Crop Rotation Group

Miscellaneous ●

Soil

Fertile, well drained soil.

Position

A sunny spot, for example at the end of a vegetable row or bed.

Frost tolerant

Young seedlings easily tolerate mild frosts, and survive winters in mild climates. The easiest chamomile to grow is a cool-season annual.

Feeding

Not usually required.

Spacing

Single Plants: 30cm (11") each way (minimum)
Rows: 25cm (9") with 40cm (1' 3") row gap (minimum)

Sow and Plant

Frost areas: start seeds indoors in early spring. Frost free areas: sow in seed trays or seed beds in early spring. When allowed to shed mature seeds, chamomile often becomes a welcome volunteer plant.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalized calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.

Notes

Feathery chamomile foliage contrasts well with the textures of other herbs and flowers.

Harvesting

Cut branches when they are holding numerous open flowers, and hang in small bunches to dry. Chamomile tea is made from the blossoms only. When the stems are dry, pop off the blossoms and store them in an airtight container.

Planting and Harvesting Calendar

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Pests which Affect Chamomile

Aphids (General)

Slug

Snail